Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological autoimmune disease. The protective sheath that covers nerve fibers is called the myelin sheath. Damage to this myelin, caused by immune system cells attacking it, leads to the development of multiple sclerosis.

Symptoms of MS attacks include fatigue, numbness and tingling in the body, balance problems, walking difficulties, speech disorders (slurring), dizziness, blurred vision, difficulties in thinking/remembering/learning/concentrating, bowel problems, and depression.

Factors such as breaches in the blood-brain barrier, gut microbiota, mitochondrial damage, viral infections, inflammation, genetic susceptibility (the disease is not hereditary, but a person’s sensitivity may be), environmental factors, obesity, and vitamin deficiencies, particularly low vitamin D levels, increase the risk of MS. These risk factors are directly related to nutrition.

Eating habits and lifestyle can either improve or worsen symptoms. Although there is still insufficient and conclusive information regarding the right nutrition approach, regulating nutrition is highly effective in increasing the quality of life for MS patients.

Dietary approaches rich in vegetables and fruits, such as the Mediterranean Diet, Paleolithic Diet/Wahls’ Elimination Diet, Swank Diet, and McDougall Diet, as well as high-fat, low-carbohydrate, and protein approaches like the Ketogenic Diet, are being utilized. The Mediterranean Diet and Ketogenic Diet are frequently used and have shown the most positive/significant effects.

WHAT SHOULD FOOD CONTENT BE LIKE?

Antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits should be consumed.
Vitamin D (found in fish, fermented dairy products, and egg yolks)
Vitamin A (found in red-orange-green vegetables and fruits, fish, eggs, and fermented dairy products)
Vitamin C (found in green vegetables, red-orange-yellow vegetables/fruits)
Vitamin B12 (found in fish, fermented dairy products, and eggs)

Quality fats must be included in the diet, while processed fats should be avoided. For example, olive oil is a type of fat that can be preferred at every meal, but other plant-based oils should not be consumed. The consumption of nuts/seeds is recommended.

Curcumin (turmeric) should be added to the diet.
A diet low in gluten and glycemic index should be adopted.
Carbohydrate needs should be met through vegetables, fruits, and legumes.
Dietary fiber intake should be increased (which can be fulfilled with vegetables, fruits, and legumes).

WHICH FOOD SUPPLEMENTS?

Since individuals have different needs, diets, and lifestyles, it is essential to consult a doctor and dietitian before using nutritional supplements.

Omega-3 supplements
Cod liver oil (contains vitamins A, D, and Omega-3)
Probiotic supplements
Multivitamins
Curcumin

Conclusion:

A diet rich in colorful vegetables and fruits should be followed.
Animal proteins should be primarily derived from fish and eggs.
Olive oil is used in nearly every meal.
Nuts/seeds are preferred.
Fermented foods are added to the diet (fermented dairy products and vegetables).
Legumes should be sprouted.
Simple carbohydrates, ready/packaged foods, and sugar should be completely eliminated from the diet.
Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and minimizing stress should be made.
Attention should be paid to water intake, aiming for 2-2.5 liters of water daily.

Note: To protect against heavy metals during fish consumption, sesame is effective. Additionally, for detoxifying the liver from heavy metal toxicity, drinks made from raw vegetable juices can be consumed in the morning on an empty stomach, before breakfast.